ST. KITTS, FEBRUARY 6TH 2010 (CUOPM) – The leaders of Belize and St. Lucia say they look forward to strengthening the friendly and excellent relations that happily exist with St. Kitts and Nevis.

Belizean Prime Minister Hon. Dean O. Barrow in a congratulatory message to St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas on his Labour Party’s recent re-election victory said he is confident “that your fourth term ensures that your leadership skills as Prime Minister enables you and your Government to continue leading your country to growth and prosperity as a member of the Caribbean Community with the trust and support of all your citizens.”

Prime Minister of St. Lucia, Hon. Stephenson King told Dr. Douglas his tenure as Prime Minister had brought many benefits to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.

“The fact that you were elected for a fourth consecutive term demonstrates that you people have decided that they will once again entrust you with the leadership of your country,” said Mr. King.

He told Dr. Douglas that at the regional level he has continued to demonstrate his commitment to the integration movement and to the people of the region.

“Your leadership and commitment to the people of the region will be needed as we work towards a successful OECS Economic Union,” said the St. Lucian Prime Minister.

In congratulating Prime Minister Douglas on attaining a fourth term as Prime Minister, prominent attorney, Mr. Charles Wilkin Q.C. said this “exceptional achievement puts you in the best possible position to initiate a change of the abnormally divisive politics of St. Kitts and to take concrete action towards uniting the country.”

“I am pleased to have heard you commit yourself to that goal. I have noted also your call on the Civil Service to improve the standards of their service to the public. Indeed, an improvement in the standard of service in all sectors is required for the country to successfully expand its service based economy,” said Mr. Wilkin.

He urged Prime Minister Douglas also to pursue the theme of his address at the 25th Independence Anniversary celebrations that a substantial change in attitudes is necessary in the years ahead.

“We are in dire need of such change,” said Mr. Wilkin who wished Prime Minister Douglas “every success in bringing this about and in the further development of the country.”

Managing Director of The Cable, Mr. Bill Ewing in expressing words of congratulations described the Labour Party’s victory as “most impressive to see you and your party win a fourth term.”

“I look forward to continuing to work with you and your Government in the months and years ahead as The Cable continues to build one of the finest telecommunications systems in the Caribbean,” said Mr. Ewing.